A new partnership between Florida Orange Juice and the Tampa Bay Lightning has been launched as the NHL pre-season begins. The collaboration will bring Florida Orange Juice promotions to fans throughout the 2025-26 season at Benchmark International Arena, home of the Tampa Bay Lightning.
Fans attending hockey games and other events at the arena will have opportunities to sample Florida Orange Juice through various activities. These include in-arena mocktails, pregame giveaways, and interactive product sampling stations located at Ford Thunder Alley and Publix Plaza during select home games. The partnership also features community engagement moments with the Lightning’s mascot, Thunderbug, and behind-the-scenes access during morning skate sessions.
Benchmark International Arena hosts a range of events beyond hockey, such as music concerts and entertainment like Monster Truck Jam. This collaboration is expected to give Florida Orange Juice significant exposure to consumers nationwide.
Steve Johnson, Chairman of the Florida Citrus Commission, commented on the health benefits of their product: “Florida Orange Juice is The Original Wellness Drink. An 8-ounce glass of what we grow — the world’s best 100% orange juice — is an excellent source of vitamin C, has electrolytes like potassium and magnesium, and other nutrients to support hydration, workout recovery and overall immune system wellness. We provide a functional beverage that’s perfect for athletes, fans and families looking for valuable health benefits that’s easy to serve and tastes delicious.”
Johnson added that marketing efforts by the Florida Department of Citrus aim to keep Florida Orange Juice relevant for today’s consumers: “Our marketing team at the FDOC is constantly working to keep Florida Orange Juice front-and-center for the modern juice consumer, and this is one of the many ways in action.”
While noting uncertainty about the timing of October’s citrus forecast release, Johnson expressed optimism about industry recovery efforts: “As we work our groves and trade production stories in coffee shops, what I see is optimism. What the number is and when it is released almost seems secondary to what we see ahead.” He congratulated CRAFT on a successful application round and thanked those involved in replanting efforts.
Johnson concluded with his outlook for Florida citrus: “As I see it today, we are, indeed, a bright future for The Sunshine State.”
Steve Johnson serves as Chairman of the Florida Citrus Commission overseeing the Florida Department of Citrus. He also owns Johnson Harvesting, Inc., based in Wauchula, FL.
